Schlupp

Aston Villa are rumoured to be heading for a transfer showdown with West Brom over Leicester City winger Jeffrey Schlupp.

The Sun reports that although West Brom are in pole position to sign the Ghana international, Steve Bruce is keen on the utility man.

Jordan Rhodes

Rhodes

Aston Villa continue to be linked with Boro striker Jordan Rhodes as we head towards the January transfer window.

The prolific and proven Championship striker has failed to settle in at The Riverside Stadium and looks set to be moved on

Rhodes will be sold to raise cash for Aitor Karanka’s rebuilding.

Rhodes started at the weekend at Southampton, only his second call up this term. He has not scored at Riverside since his £9m move from Blackburn last January and is believed to be keen to play regularly.

Karanka was keen to give him his chance after the goal-getter had waited for so long for a run in the top flight.

Kozak deal close?

The Czech Republic international has only made 20 appearances since arriving at Villa Park for £7 million in 2013.

Steve Bruce admitted to the Birmingham Mail previously that Kozak is free to leave in the January transfer window after making just two appearances for Villa this season.

Everton star wanted

James McCarthy has emerged as a target for Aston Villa, according to reports in The Mirror.

The 26-year-old is seeking a January exit from Everton after making just five appearances in the Premier League this term.

Villa are said to be keen on the Irishman, as are Albion and Crystal Palace as McCarthy weighs up what to do next.

Former chairman Bill Kenwright was the main reason the Republic of Ireland international signed a long-term deal in 2015, but the player is unhappy under new boss Ronald Koeman and does not see his future at Goodison.

Villa boss Steve Bruce wants a dynamic box-to-box midfielder in January and McCarthy could fit the bill.

A loan deal could be Villa's best approach although owner Tony Xia has told Bruce that there will be funds available to strengthen if he needs them.

Teenager linked

The Daily Mail are reporting that Villa are one of a number of English sides to have watched the 17-year-old during the early stages of his career in the Scottish Championship.

Sunderland and current Premier League champions Leicester City are also said to be interested in the youngster who’s played 12 times for St Mirren this season.

Aston Villa have already been linked with several players ahead of what is expected to be a busy January transfer window with the club looking to build on an impressive early start to life under Steve Bruce.

Manchester United ‘keeper Sam Johnstone is expected to sign on loan in January, while Arsenal’s Carl Jenkinson is thought to be on Bruce’s radar.